Philippians 4:6

"Don't worry about it! Everything will be fine!" Have you ever given this advice to a friend or spouse, only to find out it made them more anxious or mad at you for even suggesting it! When we think about the thoughts that run through our mind, we have to fight the lies by replacing them with truth. When we say "don't worry" it's a true and good thing to suggest, but it can be unhelpful if we don't replace it with something better. The cure for anxiety and worry is to replace it with gratitude and thanksgiving. When we fill our thoughts with thankfulness, it leaves no room for worry. No matter what situation you find yourself in, find something to be thankful for, and give God praise for that. Even if it is as simple as "Lord, thank you this day and the breath I have in my lungs!"

ASSAGE: Philippians 4:6 - "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

PAUSE: Anxiety and worry are idols. When we worry, we are saying that God is not big enough or gracious enough to handle our situation. Perhaps that is why the Apostle Paul commanded us not to worry. The cure to worry is praying with a grateful heart. When we pray, we replace anxiety with peace.  

PRAYER: Father, teach me to pray! Teach me to pray in such a way that I give thanks for every situation and that I trust you with my current situation.